Low
Voltage Switchgear 
Schneider Electric Ltd - Off-the-shelf distribution equipment has short lead time
The MODE range of electrical equipment from Merlin Gerin, a
brand of Schneider Electric, provides indoor, wall mounted, low
voltage distribution up to 500A. 13 options are available
off-the-shelf, all with a compact design to be installed in
areas used by the general public.
The MODE (Multiple Occupancy Distribution Equipment) range
provides a point of distribution, with or without fused incoming
isolation, to tariff meters serving multiple occupancy
residences, commercial buildings and offices.
Bespoke panel builders have traditionally served the
distribution market, but with deregulation opening broader
market opportunities, Schneider Electric has recognised the need
to provide easily specified, reliable and cost effective
packaged solutions. MODE is an elegant example of this approach
for contestable connections, since its design makes use of
proven and widely used Merlin Gerin products; but packaged in an
off the shelf offer that provides 13 variants as standard.
The comprehensive yet small range offers contractors and
installers shorter lead times than alternatives. Just four unit
types, in three ratings, provide the 13 variants that on their
own or combinations of which can be used to meet the needs of
any distribution requirements in a multiple occupancy building.
The range includes 200A 6-single pole 100A ways up to a 500A
60-single pole 100A ways. The 500A version is also available as
standard with a dual incoming and outgoing shielded fuseway and
up to 30-single poles 100A ways for distribution or incoming
shielded fuseway and up to 12-single pole 200A ways and 3-single
pole 100A ways for a landlord supply.
The MODE range includes accessories to accommodate different
termination arrangements. As standard, all incoming cables are
supported with an adjustable cable cleat, with optional
mechanical connectors to incoming fuseway removing the need for
cable lugs. The specifications, dimensions and accessories are
all detailed in a comprehensive free selection guide with
drawings and order references.
Installation time is significantly reduced thanks to staggered
outgoing phase banks which increase cabling access and make
multiple cable termination easy. Safety has been considered a
priority in the MODE design, and operators are protected to
IPXXB with the door open. Reliability has been assured through
both the one-piece combination busbar design of the MODE units
and rigorous temperature rise testing.
All units are comprehensively detailed in the MODE range
selection guide that can be downloaded from the Schneider
Electric website or alternatively request the printed version by
calling 0870 608 8 608.
Email:
jennie.smith@gb.schneider.com